Category : Encore Enterprises

From the Desk of Dr. Sangani

From the Desk of Dr. Sangani

Dr. Bharat SanganiAs I reflect on the past year, I’m struck by how even the smallest decisions can profoundly shape our future. The forces driving change today—AI, elections, geopolitics, medical advancements, inflation, and even wildfires—affect how we work, lead, and live our daily lives. For a CEO, every big decision is built on countless micro-decisions, each one laying the foundation for what comes next. In my roles as a business owner, physician, real estate developer, and mentor, I’ve seen how these choices come together—often in surprising ways.

What I want to share isn’t a polished success story. It’s a candid look at the realities of staying adaptable and seizing opportunities in a world where the goalposts are always shifting. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how big decisions take shape, this is a glimpse into the mindset it takes to keep moving forward.

Let me tell you—it’s a mix of opportunity, risk, and a constant flow of decisions, from tactical to transformational. Here are the weightiest topics that have been on my mind these past few months, in no particular order:

How Rising Rates are Shaping Commercial Real Estate
The commercial real estate sector has been pressed on multiple fronts. Interest rates remain elevated, limiting both the availability and affordability of credit. As a result, transaction volume has slowed across the board, with buyers and sellers often struggling to see eye-to-eye on asset valuations. Despite the reduced deal flow, underlying property values have held relatively steady—which speaks to the continued long-term appeal of quality assets. Still, these values are undermined by an increasingly illiquid market. Simply put, fewer transactions are taking place, and the ones that do make it over the finish line are often characterized by lengthy negotiations and conservative financing terms.

As a commercial real estate developer, navigating these conditions requires deliberate choices—choices about which assets to hold, how to structure financing, and where to direct resources. This year has served as a powerful reminder that when the waters get rough, your balance sheet becomes your lifeboat, and cash flow is your guiding compass. We may not be able to control whether interest rates rise or fall, but we can control our internal financial posture and the way we direct resources.

Cash Flow: Our Financial North Star
In an environment where credit is constrained and operating costs are on the rise, having healthy cash flow is more than just a financial metric—it’s the bedrock of adaptability and choice. One of the lessons I’ve learned through the last 25 years of navigating market cycles is that it’s not enough to simply track what comes in and goes out. I need to think strategically about vendor relationships, negotiate when possible, and maintain the right mix of debt so as not to hamper long-term growth.

I’m reminded of Warren Buffett’s insight: “Only when the tide goes out do you discover who’s been swimming naked.” In other words, when credit becomes expensive, those without a careful grip on their cash flow can find themselves exposed. I have no intention of being caught off-guard.

Building a Defensive Balance Sheet
If cash flow is the compass, then a defensive balance sheet is the sturdy hull of the ship. At my firm, Encore, we’ve spent years cultivating a stable foundation—one built on prudent leverage ratios, diversified revenue streams, and a careful eye on maturities. While we pride ourselves on making bold moves when opportunities arise, we do so with an eye toward defending what we’ve already built.

In practical terms in 2024 and through 2025, this means reevaluating debt maturities and ensuring we’re not caught by surprise if financing options tighten further. It’s no secret that rising rates translate into higher interest expenses for those with floating-rate debt, so we’ve been exploring opportunities to lock in fixed rates or refinance on favorable terms. The objective is simple: to stay several steps ahead of any potential storm, and to preserve the flexibility to act quickly if (and when) those strategic opportunities present themselves.

A Word on Healthcare Costs
Resilience doesn’t just apply to balance sheet; it applies to the well-being of employees, too. As a leader, one of my most pressing concerns is the rise in healthcare costs—a challenge that extends well beyond our own industry. Providing quality healthcare to my companies isn’t just an ethical imperative; it’s integral to sustaining a motivated, productive workforce, and deeply personal to me as a physician.

The question, then, is how to keep premiums and out-of-pocket expenses in check during a period of inflation. This challenge required a series of deliberate decisions. First, we focused on negotiating better terms with insurance providers wherever possible. Next, we accepted that, in some cases, the company would need to absorb a portion of the costs to shield employees from the full impact. Finally, we encouraged the use of generic medications, which offer the same efficacy as brand-name drugs but at a fraction of the price. Each of these choices played a role in managing rising expenses while maintaining a commitment to robust, accessible healthcare for our team.

Emerging Healthcare Solutions: GLP-1
The healthcare landscape is also on the cusp of significant transformation. One particularly exciting development is the rise of GLP-1 medications—drugs that have shown remarkable promise in treating diabetes, assisting with weight loss, and potentially reducing various metabolic risk factors. I believe we’re just beginning to grasp the broader implications these treatments may have across the healthcare ecosystem. From lowering long-term costs associated with chronic conditions to improving overall employee wellness, the opportunities are vast. It’s too early to predict all the downstream benefits, but I see a future where GLP-1s could revolutionize how we treat (and even prevent) some of the most common health challenges we face. The individual and business decisions that stem for this potential overhaul remain to be seen. But I am open, curious, and closely watching this space.

Looking Ahead
As I look toward 2025, I see a world that still holds a fair share of unpredictability—capital can suddenly become scarce and market sentiment can flip on a dime. No one can promise a smooth ride in this business, but I’ve also been at this for more than 25 years, so I know the key is carefully considered incremental decisions. For my business that means focusing on maintaining a strong cash position, a defensive balance sheet, and healthy happy employees.

The thoughts I’ve shared here aren’t about perfection or a guaranteed path to success. It’s about embracing adaptability, remaining open to innovation, and recognizing that progress often comes one decision at a time. Thank you for joining me in this reflection—and for being part of a shared pursuit of progress, resilience, and success.

Wishing you and your families a prosperous new year.
With gratitude,
Dr. Bharat Sangani

Encore Hospitality Adds Braintree Hotel to Portfolio

Hampton Inn, Braintree

(Braintree, MA) July 13, 2017 – Encore Hospitality, LLC, a subsidiary of Encore Enterprises, Inc., is pleased to announce it has purchased a Hampton Inn hotel in Braintree, Massachusetts. The 4-story, 103-room hotel currently operates as a Hampton Inn, but will be extensively renovated to achieve Hilton brand standards.

“We are excited to acquire this new hotel for our growing portfolio,” said Chairman of Encore Enterprises, Inc. Dr. Bharat Sangani. “By renovating the hotel, we will strengthen our relationship with the Hilton franchise and increase satisfaction for the hotel’s customers.”

Encore plans to invest around $25,000 per room to completely renovate all aspects of the hotel including guest rooms, meeting rooms, lobby, lounge, exterior of the building, landscaping, and the pool area.

Located in Braintree, MA, the Hampton Inn is positioned off of a major intersection that provides convenient access to Downtown Boston as well as Cape Cod.

“Since this property is only one of two Hilton-branded hotels in the entire tri-city of Braintree, Canton, and Quincy, we are creating a better option for customers by renovating,” said Glenn Pedersen, President of Encore Hospitality. “We look forward to investing in the renovation of the hotel so it can add to the amenities offered by Hilton’s incredibly high distribution of units that makes it such a sought-after brand.”

About Encore Enterprises, Inc. – Encore Enterprises, Inc. is a privately owned national real estate company founded in 1999 with corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas. Encore develops, acquires, and manages hotels, multi-family communities, retail shopping centers, commercial offices, and public-private mixed use developments. For more information, visit Encore Enterprises, Inc., or call (214) 259-7000.

About Encore Hospitality, LLC – Encore Hospitality, LLC is a subsidiary of Encore Enterprises, Inc., and was founded in 1999 as a fully integrated, hospitality acquisition, development and asset management company focusing on the upper mid-priced, nationally branded select-service and full-service hotel sector. For more information, visit Encore Hospitality, LLC, or call (214) 259-7000.

New 300-Unit Riverwalk Apartment Community Announced for Panther Island

Encore Panther Island will be a thoughtfully designed luxury apartment community with direct access to the first segment of Riverwalk on the island.

(Fort Worth, Texas) October 20, 2016 – Encore Multi-Family, LLC, a subsidiary of the Dallas-based Encore Enterprises, Inc., is officially under contract to break ground on the first private development on Panther Island. The thoughtfully designed 233,198 square-foot multi-family community will feature creative solutions to connect the streetscape to the Riverwalk environment planned for the district. Residents will be able to enjoy exceptional amenities including waterfront balconies, an infinity pool with cascading waterfalls, a state-of-the-art fitness facility and a top floor lounge that will feature the most dynamic views of downtown. Located at the intersection of 4th Street and North Main Street, residents at the 300-unit community will be walking distance to Panther Island Brewing, Coyote Drive-In, and Panther Island Pavilion.

The community will be situated along the first segment of a series of interconnected canals that will wind throughout the island. This portion of the canal has been designed to accommodate a stop for the water taxis that are expected to serve the island. In addition, it will be accessible for those wanting to launch kayaks, canoes, and stand up paddle boards.

“We carefully studied the Riverwalk in San Antonio and worked closely with the Trinity River Vision Authority Design Committee to combine the organic feel beloved in San Antonino with Fort Worth’s distinct culture to create a one-of-a-kind living experience,” said Bradley Miller, President of Encore Multi-Family. “We have designed community spaces along the Riverwalk to give our residents a true outdoor living room experience that will promote the active outdoor lifestyle that’s central to Panther Island.”

“As the first development within the district we have carefully designed our project to fully integrate into this special high-density mixed-use district. We are dedicated to creating a special pedestrian-focused experience that allows our residents to walk out their front door and walk along the canal to enjoy the boardwalk along Fort Worth’s future town lake,” said Bharat Sangani, Chairman of Encore Enterprises.

The design of the buildings celebrates Fort Worth’s rich connection to the railroad and takes cues from the historic railroad bridge trusses located throughout the city. The iron features throughout the design will be carefully balanced with extensive landscaping featuring a multitude of trees and native plantings.

This community will be the first development to break ground within the Panther Island District – a vibrant waterfront mixed-use development located in the heart of Fort Worth. The more than 10,000 residences planned and 12 miles of active urban waterfront – including flowing canals and corridors that create uniquely-walkable spaces – will give rise to new businesses, trendy restaurants, and a booming nightlife.

Construction for Encore Panther Island is slated to begin Summer 2017. Encore Multi-Family anticipates a grand opening date of Summer 2018.

About Encore Multi-Family, LLC  
Encore Multi-Family, LLC is a subsidiary of Encore Enterprises, Inc. and was founded in 2008 as a fully integrated multi-family developer, owner and operator. The company is involved in all aspects of multifamily development projects and acquisitions including ground-up developments, joint ventures and mixed-use turn key developments. For more information about Encore Multi-Family, LLC, visit encore.bz or call (214) 259-7000.

New 253-Unit Class A Apartment Community Under Construction on Swiss Avenue

Encore Swiss Avenue, Apartment Investing Dallas

Encore Swiss Ave. will be a thoughtfully designed luxury apartment community in Dallas’s near east side close to the Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas.

(Dallas, Texas) January 19, 2017 – Encore Multi-Family, LLC, a subsidiary of the Dallas-based Encore Enterprises, Inc., has officially broken ground on Encore Swiss Avenue on the corner of Swiss Avenue and North Peak Street near East Dallas. The thoughtfully designed 253-unit and 204,752 square-foot multi-family community will feature a contemporary design with a nod to the historical nature of the neighborhood.

“Demand in the area has outpaced supply and current demand drivers continue to be strong,” said Bharat Sangani, Chairman of Encore Enterprises. “We are seeing millennials continue to rent for longer than previous generations and anticipate that these demand drivers will only get stronger in the future.”

The leasing office and front door will front Swiss Avenue providing a pedestrian connection to the enhanced streetscape and landscape parkway. The Residents will enjoy a luxurious clubroom for entertaining and business center both directly linked to a formally landscaped pool courtyard with fountains, raised spa, casual seating and grill stations. Other amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness facility and 24-hour package concierge.

Encore Swiss Avenue will offer a variety of one and two-bedroom units designed to provide variability in pricing to the market. All units are professionally designed and will have the latest finishes including stainless steel appliances, energy efficient LED lighting fixtures, and individual full size washer/dryers.

“We are excited about the opportunity to develop a community in the historic Swiss Avenue corridor in near East Dallas, just two miles from the CBD,” said Brad Miller, President of Encore Multi-Family. “This project is culmination of two years of careful planning and design.”

Construction for Encore Swiss Avenue is currently under way first units available for occupancy the First Quarter 2018.

About Encore Multi-Family, LLC     
Encore Multi-Family, LLC is a subsidiary of Encore Enterprises, Inc. and was founded in 2008 as a fully integrated multi-family developer, owner and operator. The company is involved in all aspects of multifamily development projects and acquisitions including ground-up developments, joint ventures and mixed-use turnkey developments. For more information about Encore Multi-Family, LLC, visit encore.bz or call (214) 259-7000.

Encore Restaurants Opens New Five Guys in Riverbank, CA

Five Guys, Riverbank

(Riverbank, CA) April 11, 2016 – Encore Restaurants, LLC, a subsidiary of the Dallas-based Encore Enterprises, Inc., opened its newest Five Guys Burgers and Fries restaurant today. The restaurant located at 2207 Claribel Rd, Suite B in Riverbank, CA and is the twelfth Five Guys restaurant to be owned and managed by Encore Restaurants, LLC.

“We are eager to continue our expansion of the Five Guys brand across California,” said Chairman of Encore Enterprises, Inc. Dr. Bharat Sangani. “We expect great things from this new location and are excited to continue expansion in the future.”

Open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Five Guys serves award-winning burgers, hot dogs, and fries that are fresh, never frozen, and customizable for any taste with over 250,000 burger options to be ordered. Five Guy’s has been ZAGAT survey rated every year since 2001 and has been voted the Washingtonian Magazine’s “Readers’ Choice” #1 Burger every year since 1999.

“Time and time again we’ve had such great reception from the residents of California so far and we are sure our newest store will be no exception,” said Dale Doerhoff, president of Encore Restaurants. “We are excited to be able to bring such a well-known brand to a new location and look forward to operating in Riverbank.”

About Encore Enterprises, Inc. – Encore Enterprises, Inc. is a privately owned national real estate company founded in 1999 with corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas. Encore develops, acquires, and manages hotels, multi-family communities, retail shopping centers, commercial offices, and public-private mixed use developments.

About Encore Restaurants, LLC – Encore Restaurants, LLC. develops, owns and manages specific territories of various Full Dining, Fast Casual, and Quick Serve concepts across the United States. For information regarding future development locations, please contact Stacey Barber at 228-547-0293. For more information about Encore, visit encorebz.wp.brainvire.dev or call (214) 259-7000.

Encore Hospitality Adds Harrisonburg Hotel to Portfolio

Harrisonburg Hotel

(Harrisonburg, VA) March 10, 2016 – Encore Hospitality, LLC, a subsidiary of Encore Enterprises, Inc., recently purchased a hotel in Harrisonburg, VA. The 4-story, 140-room hotel currently operates as a Holiday Inn, but will be converted to a DoubleTree, after extensive upcoming renovations to satisfy Hilton brand standards.

“We are excited to acquire this new hotel for our growing portfolio,” said Chairman of Encore Enterprises, Inc. Dr. Bharat Sangani. “We are excited to continue to grow our relationship with the Hilton franchise in this new location.”

Encore plans to invest $50,000 per room to completely upgrade all aspects of the hotel including guest rooms, meeting rooms, lobby, lounge, exterior of the building, landscaping and the pool area. Once the renovations are complete, the hotel will take on the DoubleTree by Hilton name, offering all the perks of the Hilton brand and the Hilton HHonors program.

Located in Harrisonburg, VA just a mile away from James Madison University and located off of a major interchange that provides convenient access to Downtown Harrisonburg as well as Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest, the hotel is centrally located for sightseeing. The hotel will also provide a new wedding and social event venue in the area as it is the only full-service hotel in the market.

“Converting this hotel to a full-service DoubleTree provides much desired hotel services to the Harrisonburg area,” said Glenn Pedersen, President of Encore Hospitality. “We look forward to investing in the renovation of the hotel so it can add to the amenities offered in Harrisonburg unlike any other hotel offers in the area.”

About Encore Enterprises, Inc. – Encore Enterprises, Inc. is a privately owned national real estate company founded in 1999 with corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas. Encore develops, acquires, and manages hotels, multi-family communities, retail shopping centers, commercial offices, and public-private mixed use developments.

About Encore Hospitality, LLC – Encore Hospitality, LLC is a subsidiary of Encore Enterprises, Inc., and was founded in 1999 as a fully integrated, hospitality acquisition, development and asset management company focusing on the upper mid-priced, nationally branded select-service and full-service hotel sector. For more information about Encore Hospitality, LLC, visit encorebz.wp.brainvire.dev, or call (214) 259-7000.

Yatin Gandhi Promoted to Senior Vice President of Finance, Tax and Risk Management at Encore Enterprises

Yatin Gandhi, Risk Management Promotion

Dallas, TX (November 11, 2015) – Encore Enterprises, Inc. is pleased to announce that Mr. Yatin Gandhi has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Finance, Tax, and Risk Management. Mr. Gandhi previously served as corporate controller for Encore, overseeing over $1 billion of real estate transactions across diverse asset types since joining the Encore team in 2004.

“Throughout Yatin’s service as corporate controller for Encore Enterprises, he has demonstrated a proficiency for financial management and a vast knowledge of the company,” said Dr. Bharat Sangani, Chairman of Encore Enterprises. “We are excited to add his experience to our management team and are confident in his skills and abilities. We know he will continue to make a positive impact on the company in this new role.”

Mr. Gandhi uses his understanding of technology in coordination with process development to manage the treasury, payroll, and accounting functions. He is also actively involved in the areas of corporate and shareholder tax planning.

About Encore Enterprises, Inc.
Encore Enterprises, Inc. is a privately owned national real estate investment company founded in 1999 with corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas. Encore develops, acquires, and manages hotels, multi-family communities, retail shopping centers, and commercial offices.

New York, California, Texas,
Commercial Real Estate, Retail Investment Opportunities

Load More